KU Law Traditions


Overview

For more than 145 years, generations of Jayhawk lawyers have created traditions that are an integral part of the KU Law experience.


KU Law student is hooded during the 2024 Hooding Ceremony

Graduation

Law school graduation is a joyous weekend for graduates, faculty, families and friends. Activities begin with the Hooding Ceremony at the Lied Center, where each graduate is individually recognized. An open house follows at Green Hall. The next day, graduates participate in the time-honored walk down Campanile Hill during the all-university commencement ceremony at Memorial Stadium.


Dean Stephen Mazza talks to KU Law students on the steps of Lippincott Hall

Walk to "Old" Green Hall

The Walk to "Old" Green Hall began in Spring 1978. Nostalgic law students who spent their first two years in "old" Green Hall and moved to a new building in the fall of 1977 persuaded Professor Paul Wilson to lead them back to their original home. The tradition of reminiscing and sharing law school history has continued for more than 45 years.

Watch a video about the Walk to Old Green Hall


KU Law alumni laugh at the 2024 Diversity Banquet

Diversity in Law Banquet

The Diversity in Law Banquet is an annual fundraiser for the Diversity in Law Scholarship Fund. Students, faculty and alumni celebrate the many contributions diverse communities make to the legal profession.


KU Law students in Hawaiian shirts pose holding their Bluebooks for the 2023 Bluebook Relays

Bluebook Relays

Each fall, first-year law students participate in the Barber Emerson Bluebook Relays. The competition tests legal research skills learned in the Lawyering program. Working in teams, students locate references in the library and write the citation in correct Bluebook format. The point system rewards speed, accuracy and citation skills.

Watch a video about the Bluebook Relays


Two students load donated food into a food bank van

Thanksgiving Food Drive

The entire law school participates in the annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, coordinated by the Black Law Students Association. BLSA members solicit contributions from law school faculty, students and staff to provide for Lawrence residents in need.

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